Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method comprising: marking, by a first base station serving a user equipment, at least one packet to comprise a first indication indicating that the at least one packet was received directly at the first base station serving the user equipment; marking, by the first base station, at least one other packet to comprise a second indication to indicate that the at least one other packet was received via a second base station also serving the user equipment; receiving, at the first base station, a first downlink packet comprising a first downlink packet indication marked by a gateway node to indicate that at least the first downlink packet should be transmitted directly to the user equipment; receiving, at the first base station, a second downlink packet comprising a second downlink packet indication marked by the gateway node to indicate that at least the second downlink packet should be forwarded to the second base station for transmission to the user equipment; and reporting, by the first base station and to a network node, a deviation from a resource allocation and at least one of the first indication or the second indication.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing packet routing and resource allocation in multi-base station environments. The problem addressed involves efficiently routing uplink and downlink packets between a user equipment (UE) and multiple serving base stations while ensuring proper resource utilization and reporting deviations from expected behavior. The method involves a first base station serving a UE, which marks uplink packets to indicate whether they were received directly or via a second base station also serving the UE. Packets received directly are marked with a first indication, while those relayed through the second base station are marked with a second indication. For downlink traffic, a gateway node marks packets with indications to direct their transmission: the first downlink packet is marked for direct transmission to the UE, while the second is marked for forwarding to the second base station. The first base station monitors these markings and reports any deviations from allocated resources or unexpected packet routing patterns to a network node. This ensures proper coordination between base stations and optimizes network performance by identifying and addressing inefficiencies in packet routing.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first downlink packet indication comprises a cell identifier associated with the first base station and/or a base station identifier identifying the first base station, and wherein the second downlink packet indication comprises another cell identifier associated with the second base station and/or another base station identifier identifying the second base station.
In wireless communication systems, efficient handover between base stations is critical for maintaining seamless connectivity as user devices move between coverage areas. A method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and coordinating downlink packet transmissions during handover procedures. The method involves generating and transmitting downlink packet indications that include specific identifiers for the involved base stations. A first downlink packet indication, associated with a first base station, contains a cell identifier and/or a base station identifier for the first base station. Similarly, a second downlink packet indication, associated with a second base station, includes a cell identifier and/or a base station identifier for the second base station. These identifiers ensure that the network can distinguish between the base stations and properly route downlink packets during handover. The method supports seamless transitions by enabling precise identification of the source and target base stations, reducing packet loss and improving handover reliability. The identifiers may be used in signaling between network nodes to coordinate packet forwarding and ensure continuity of service. This approach enhances handover performance in scenarios where multiple base stations are involved, particularly in dense network deployments or high-mobility environments.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising: sending, by the first base station and based on the first downlink packet indication, the first downlink packet to the user equipment by transmitting the packet directly to the user equipment; and sending, by the first base station and based on the second downlink packet indication, the second downlink packet to the user equipment by forwarding the second downlink packet to the second base station.
In wireless communication systems, efficient data transmission between base stations and user equipment (UE) is critical for maintaining reliable connectivity. A method addresses the challenge of managing downlink packet delivery when multiple base stations are involved in serving a single UE. The method involves a first base station receiving downlink packet indications from a core network, where these indications specify whether packets should be sent directly to the UE or forwarded to a second base station. The first base station processes these indications to determine the appropriate transmission path. If the first downlink packet indication specifies direct transmission, the first base station sends the packet directly to the UE. If the second downlink packet indication specifies forwarding, the first base station forwards the second downlink packet to the second base station, which then relays it to the UE. This approach optimizes data routing by dynamically selecting the most efficient path for each packet, reducing latency and improving overall network performance. The method ensures seamless handover and efficient resource utilization in scenarios where multiple base stations are involved in serving a UE.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: reporting, by the first base station, to the network node a resource allocation at the first base station and the second base station.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing radio resource allocation between base stations to improve network efficiency. The problem addressed is the need for coordinated resource allocation between multiple base stations to avoid interference and optimize spectrum utilization in dense network deployments. The method involves a first base station receiving resource allocation information from a second base station, where the second base station is part of a coordinated network. The first base station then determines a resource allocation for itself based on the received information to minimize interference and maximize throughput. Additionally, the first base station reports its own resource allocation, along with the second base station's allocation, to a network node. This network node could be a central controller or another network management entity responsible for overseeing the coordination process. The reported resource allocation includes details about the frequency, time, or code resources assigned to each base station, ensuring that the network node has a comprehensive view of the spectrum usage across the coordinated network. This allows the network node to make further optimizations or adjustments as needed. The method enables dynamic and adaptive resource allocation, improving overall network performance in environments with multiple base stations operating in close proximity.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the deviation comprises at least one downlink data packet being delivered to the user equipment via a base station that is different to what is marked in the at least one downlink data packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing issues in data packet routing within cellular networks. The problem being solved involves ensuring reliable data delivery when user equipment (UE) moves between base stations, particularly when downlink data packets are misrouted due to delays in updating network routing information. The method involves detecting deviations in data packet delivery paths. A key aspect is identifying when a downlink data packet is delivered to the UE via a base station that differs from the base station indicated in the packet's routing information. This deviation occurs when the network's mobility management system has not yet updated the routing path for the UE, causing temporary misrouting. The system monitors these deviations to improve handover efficiency and reduce packet loss during UE mobility. The method may also include analyzing the frequency and duration of such deviations to optimize handover procedures. By tracking these events, the network can adjust routing updates more dynamically, ensuring packets are delivered via the correct base station. This approach enhances data delivery reliability in scenarios where UE mobility causes temporary routing inconsistencies. The solution is particularly useful in high-mobility environments where rapid handover decisions are critical.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first indication, the second indication, and the deviation enable the network node to determine charging for the at least one packet, the at least one other packet, the first downlink packet, and/or the second downlink packet.
This invention relates to network-based charging systems, specifically for determining and applying charges for data packets in a communication network. The problem addressed is the need for accurate and dynamic charging mechanisms that account for variations in packet handling, such as deviations from expected behavior, to ensure fair and precise billing. The method involves analyzing multiple indications and deviations associated with data packets to enable a network node to determine appropriate charging. The first indication relates to the handling of at least one packet, while the second indication pertains to the handling of at least one other packet. A deviation is identified when the handling of these packets differs from expected or predefined criteria. The network node uses these indications and the deviation to assess and apply charges for the packets, including downlink packets transmitted to a user device. This ensures that billing reflects actual network usage, including any anomalies or deviations in packet processing. The system dynamically adjusts charging based on real-time data, improving fairness and accuracy in network billing.
7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: marking, by the first base station, one or more uplink packets to comprise a third indication to indicate that the second base station is no longer serving the user equipment.
A method for managing user equipment (UE) handover in wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently transitioning UE between base stations while minimizing service disruption. The method involves a first base station receiving a handover request from a second base station, where the second base station is currently serving the UE. The first base station then transmits a handover command to the UE, instructing it to switch from the second base station to the first base station. The first base station also sends a handover confirmation to the second base station, acknowledging the handover process. Additionally, the first base station marks one or more uplink packets with a third indication to signal that the second base station is no longer serving the UE. This marking helps the network recognize the handover completion and ensures proper routing of subsequent communications. The method optimizes handover procedures by providing clear signaling between base stations and the UE, reducing latency and improving reliability in wireless networks.
8. An apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: mark, by the apparatus serving a user equipment, at least one packet to comprise a first indication indicating that the at least one packet was received directly at the apparatus serving the user equipment; mark, by the apparatus, at least one other packet to comprise a second indication to indicate that the at least one other packet was received via a second base station also serving the user equipment; receive, by the apparatus, a first downlink packet comprising a first downlink packet indication marked by a gateway node to indicate that at least the first downlink packet should be transmitted directly to the user equipment; receive, by the first apparatus, a second downlink packet comprising a second downlink packet indication marked by the gateway node to indicate that at least the second downlink packet should be forwarded to the second base station for transmission to the user equipment; and reporting, by the apparatus and to a network node, a deviation from a resource allocation and at least one of the first indication or the second indication.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to managing packet routing and resource allocation in networks where a user equipment (UE) is served by multiple base stations, such as in dual-connectivity scenarios. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient packet delivery and accurate reporting of resource usage deviations in such environments. The apparatus includes at least one processor and memory with program code to perform several functions. It marks packets received directly from the UE with a first indication and packets received via a second base station with a second indication. The apparatus also processes downlink packets from a gateway node, where the gateway marks packets with indications specifying whether they should be transmitted directly to the UE or forwarded to the second base station. Additionally, the apparatus reports deviations from allocated resources to a network node, including the first or second indications from the packets. This helps the network monitor and adjust resource allocation dynamically, improving efficiency in multi-base station serving scenarios. The system ensures proper routing and tracking of packets in dual-connectivity setups, optimizing network performance and resource management.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the apparatus comprises a first base station.
A wireless communication system includes a first base station configured to transmit a synchronization signal to a second base station. The synchronization signal is used to synchronize the timing of the first base station with the second base station. The first base station also transmits a reference signal to the second base station, which the second base station uses to determine its position relative to the first base station. The first base station further transmits a data signal to the second base station, which the second base station uses to establish a communication link with the first base station. The synchronization signal, reference signal, and data signal are transmitted using a shared frequency band. The first base station may also include a processor configured to process signals received from the second base station and a memory configured to store data related to the communication link. The system improves synchronization and positioning accuracy between base stations in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where precise timing and location information are critical.
10. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the first indication and the second indication enable the network node to determine charging for the at least one packet, the at least one other packet, the first downlink packet, and/or the second downlink packet.
This invention relates to a network node apparatus for managing packet charging in a communication system. The apparatus includes a processor configured to receive a first indication from a first network function and a second indication from a second network function. The first indication identifies at least one packet associated with a first service, while the second indication identifies at least one other packet associated with a second service. The processor is further configured to receive a first downlink packet from a first user equipment (UE) and a second downlink packet from a second UE. The first and second indications enable the network node to determine charging for the packets, including the at least one packet, the at least one other packet, the first downlink packet, and the second downlink packet. The apparatus may also include a memory storing instructions for the processor and a communication interface for receiving and transmitting data. The invention addresses the challenge of accurately tracking and charging for different types of packets in a network, ensuring proper billing for various services and users. The apparatus supports dynamic charging decisions based on real-time packet information from multiple network functions.
11. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the first downlink packet indication comprises a cell identifier associated with the first base station and/or a base station identifier identifying the first base station, and wherein the second downlink packet indication comprises another cell identifier associated with the second base station and/or another base station identifier identifying the second base station.
In wireless communication systems, particularly in multi-base station environments, efficient coordination between base stations is essential for seamless data transmission to user devices. A key challenge is ensuring that downlink packets are correctly routed and identified when multiple base stations are involved in serving a single user device. This can lead to misrouting or delays if the packets are not properly distinguished. A technical solution involves an apparatus that facilitates downlink packet transmission coordination between a first base station and a second base station. The apparatus generates a first downlink packet indication for the first base station and a second downlink packet indication for the second base station. Each downlink packet indication includes a cell identifier or a base station identifier to uniquely associate the packet with the correct base station. The first downlink packet indication contains a cell identifier or base station identifier for the first base station, while the second downlink packet indication contains a different cell identifier or base station identifier for the second base station. This ensures that downlink packets are correctly routed and processed by the intended base station, improving coordination and reducing errors in multi-base station environments. The identifiers may be used to distinguish between different base stations or cells, ensuring proper packet handling in scenarios where multiple base stations serve the same user device.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the apparatus is further caused to at least send, based on the first downlink packet indication, the first downlink packet to the user equipment by transmitting the packet directly to the user equipment, and send, based on the second downlink packet indication, the second downlink packet to the user equipment by forwarding the second downlink packet to the second base station.
In wireless communication systems, efficient data transmission between base stations and user equipment (UE) is critical for maintaining network performance. A key challenge is managing downlink packet delivery, especially when multiple base stations are involved in serving a single UE. This invention addresses this problem by providing an apparatus that intelligently routes downlink packets to the UE based on their origin and destination. The apparatus includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the apparatus to receive downlink packet indications from a core network. These indications specify whether a downlink packet is intended for direct transmission to the UE or should be forwarded to another base station. The apparatus processes these indications to determine the appropriate routing path for each packet. For a first downlink packet, the apparatus sends the packet directly to the UE, bypassing any intermediate base stations. For a second downlink packet, the apparatus forwards the packet to a second base station, which then relays it to the UE. This selective routing ensures efficient data delivery while minimizing unnecessary network hops, improving latency and resource utilization. The apparatus may also handle packet prioritization, ensuring critical data is transmitted with minimal delay. This solution is particularly useful in scenarios involving dual-connectivity or multi-base station coordination, where seamless and optimized packet delivery is essential.
13. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the apparatus is further caused to at least report to a network node a resource allocation at the apparatus and the second base station.
A wireless communication apparatus is configured to manage radio resource allocation in a network environment where multiple base stations coordinate to serve user devices. The apparatus includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the apparatus to perform operations related to resource allocation. Specifically, the apparatus is configured to determine and allocate radio resources for communication between a user device and a second base station, ensuring efficient use of available spectrum while minimizing interference. Additionally, the apparatus is designed to report the resource allocation details to a network node, such as a central controller or another base station, to facilitate coordinated management of network resources. This reporting mechanism enables the network to maintain awareness of resource usage across different base stations, improving overall network efficiency and reliability. The apparatus may also include interfaces for communicating with the second base station and the network node, ensuring seamless coordination and data exchange. The solution addresses challenges in dynamic resource allocation in heterogeneous networks, where multiple base stations must collaboratively manage resources to support high-quality communication services.
14. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the deviation comprises at least one downlink data packet being delivered to the user equipment via a base station that is different to what is marked in the at least one downlink data packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing issues in data packet routing within cellular networks. The problem occurs when downlink data packets are delivered to user equipment (UE) via an unintended base station, differing from the base station indicated in the packet's routing information. This deviation can lead to inefficiencies, such as increased latency, unnecessary handover procedures, or service disruptions. The apparatus includes a network node configured to detect and manage such deviations. It monitors downlink data packets transmitted to UE and identifies instances where the actual base station delivering the packet differs from the base station specified in the packet's header or routing metadata. The apparatus then determines the cause of the deviation, which may involve analyzing network topology, signal strength, or handover protocols. It can also assess the impact of the deviation on network performance, such as latency or resource utilization. The apparatus may further include mechanisms to correct or mitigate the deviation, such as adjusting routing tables, triggering handover procedures, or optimizing base station selection. The system ensures that data packets are delivered via the intended base station, improving reliability and efficiency in wireless communication networks. This solution is particularly relevant in scenarios involving mobility management, load balancing, or dynamic network conditions.
15. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the first indication, the second indication, and the deviation enable the network node to determine charging for the at least one packet, the at least one other packet, the first downlink packet, and/or the second downlink packet.
This invention relates to network communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of accurate charging for data packets in a network. The apparatus includes a network node configured to process packets transmitted between a user equipment (UE) and another network node. The network node receives a first indication associated with at least one packet transmitted from the UE to the other network node and a second indication associated with at least one other packet transmitted from the other network node to the UE. The network node also determines a deviation between the first indication and the second indication. The first indication, second indication, and deviation collectively enable the network node to accurately determine charging for the packets involved, including the at least one packet, the at least one other packet, and any downlink packets (first downlink packet and/or second downlink packet) transmitted from the other network node to the UE. This ensures precise billing based on actual data transmission patterns, resolving discrepancies in charging calculations that may arise from mismatched uplink and downlink traffic indicators. The apparatus may further include additional components to generate or process these indications, ensuring reliable charging data for network operators.
Unknown
December 29, 2020
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.